The Bachelors of Fine Arts in Theatre prepares students with classroom learning augmented
with hands-on experience in professional settings. With three concentrations, Acting
for Stage and Screen, Musical Theatre or Entertainment Design and Technology, students
have the opportunity to learn their craft in state-of-the-art facilities from an accomplished
and innovative faculty. Students will take courses like History of the Theatre; Intro
to Design for Stage and Screen; Directing; Production; Dramatic Literature and Criticism;
and Acting for the Camera. Students will also have the chance for internships and
other practical experience opportunities.
Where You'll Go
A career in theatre can take you across the world and bring your imagination to life
in your community. Jobs including acting, set production, directing and a variety
of other creative professions. There are also opportunities for graduate-level studies
that can lead to a career teaching the skills you are passionate about. The Bureau
of Labor Statistics states the average salary for postsecondary teachers (art, music,
drama) is $75,350.
A career in the theatre can be your ticket to a career in a variety of exciting and
creative professional opportunities. These jobs can have you starring on-stage or
working in a number of creative and exciting positions that are crucial for stage
productions to be successful. Many people take their talents to big cities while others
thrive in community productions, but your education will help you pursue your passion
wherever it takes you. Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµâ€™s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre
Arts is a truly immersive experience that will prepare you for work in all areas of
the theatre.
Degree Options
School
David Orr Belcher College of Fine & Performing Arts, School of Stage & Screen
Location
Cullowhee Campus
Length
Full-Time or Part-Time (Flexible Scheduling)
Time to Complete:
4 Years (8-semester undergraduate program)
Credits:
120 credit hours required (69 program hours + 42 liberal studies + 9 electives for
Acting concentration)
App Deadline:
Competitive admission — requires audition or interview plus supplemental application.
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Program
Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµâ€™s B.F.A. in Theatre prepares students for professional
careers in performance, production, and design with intensive, immersive training
that balances theory, craft, and real-world experience. Grounded in both classroom
learning and hands-on production, the program helps students develop creative expression,
technical skill, and artistic confidence while equipping them with the practical tools
needed to succeed in theatre, film, and related entertainment fields.
Students have the opportunity to specialize in concentrations such as Acting for Stage
and Screen, Musical Theatre, or Entertainment Design and Technology, each guided by
experienced faculty and developed within state-of-the-art facilities. The curriculum
includes rigorous coursework in dramatic literature, performance technique, design
principles, and production practice, complemented by internship opportunities and
real-world projects that deepen professional readiness. Whether students pursue performance,
design, or production roles, they graduate prepared to contribute as creative leaders
in theatre, film, and the broader arts community.
The admission process is designed to ensure students have the skills, preparation,
and commitment needed for success in a professional theatre environment. Through the
audition or portfolio review, faculty evaluate talent, potential, and readiness for
intensive performance or technical training.
The Film & Television Production program prepares students for careers in film, television,
and digital media. From developing story concepts to post-production, students gain
end-to-end experience producing narrative, documentary, and commercial content.
The Musical Theatre program immerses students in comprehensive performance training
designed to build versatility, stamina, and artistic expression. Extensive scene work,
vocal training, choreography, and production experience.
This program provides rigorous actor training rooted in both theatre and film practices.
Students build a versatile skill set through intensive scene work, character development,
physical performance, and camera training.
The Entertainment Design & Technology program prepares technicians, designers, and
production artists for careers in theatre, film, live events, and entertainment environments.
The B.A. in Stage & Screen offers a customizable pathway for students drawn to multiple
facets of storytelling and production. Students can combine interests in writing,
directing, acting, design, management, or film production to create a unique educational
experience aligned with their career goals.
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Related Programs
Explore our related programs until you find the one that’s right for you.
The School of Stage and Screen(SAS) at Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµ is truly a special
place to hone your craft. WCU’s location is a stone’s throw from the Great Smoky
Mountains, and situated in a rural but lively hub of small Appalachian towns. Our
beautiful campus is an inspiration to all who study here, and holds a special place
in the hearts of all Catamounts.
The School of Stage and Screen values storytelling as the primary tie that binds us
all together, not only as educators and learners, but humanity as a whole. Our degree
programs have different specialties, but all are bound by the profound power of story
to change lives. We value experiential learning and plunge our students into stage
and film production from their first semester. In addition we have an active faculty
that are also engaged in producing their craft at Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµand in the professional world.